Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but improving your curb appeal is always attractive to potential home buyers. There are a number of outdoor renovations you can make to attract attention and sell your home more easily. Let’s take a look.
Install Outdoor Light Fixtures
If you’re looking for some extra ambiance, landscape lighting is a great way to brighten up the yard and improve your curb appeal. Fixtures can be used to accent your garden, walkways, or front door.
Build a Deck or Patio
A bigger project to be sure, but building a deck or patio will increase the value of your home tremendously. In fact, outdoor renovation experts say that there is upwards of a 20% return on investment. Deciding between the two will really come down to personal preference, but no matter which you choose, your curb appeal will be affected. Keep in mind, stone patios will last longer, but decks will be simpler to install.
Fix up Your Door
Curb appeal is all about making a great first impression, and your entrance way is a focal point. Deciding to fix up your door will increase the value of your home and improve the overall look of your house. You don’t need to install a custom wood door either (although it wouldn’t hurt). A fresh coat of paint and new hardware will do the trick.
Go Big in the Garden
It doesn’t take much to go big in the garden, meaning you can make some simple changes that will work wonders for your curb appeal. Think about putting in some potted plants or other low maintenance garden work. Anything too ornate may actually scare off potential buyers. Simplicity is key when fixing up your yard.
Planting Trees
You’d be amazed at what a tree can do for you home, especially if they are featured prominently. Not only do they look great, but their shade can help cool your home and act as a windbreak.
Water Features
If you decide to install some sort of water feature, such as an artificial pond, bird bath or fountain, make sure it fits into the style of its surrounding areas. If it feels out of place, it may not do that much for your curb appeal. But, if it’s tastefully done, you will have an extra money maker on your hands.
Renew paint, siding, and trim
If you’re looking for more of a makeover, a little exterior maintenance can go a long way. Replace any old or rotting materials that are visible from the outside, and throw on a fresh coat of paint. After that, look for ways in which you can add accents, such as trim or shingles.
Dress up the Driveway
If wear and tear has gotten the better of your driveway, dressing it up will massively affect your curb appeal. Fill in cracks, repair the stains, kill weeds, and decide whether you want to stain the concrete of affix flagstone.
Improving your curb appeal doesn’t have to be complicated. Find whatever time you can and put it into projects that will spruce up the exterior of your home. And if you are stuck on what to tackle first, consult an experienced REALTOR® for advice before investing significant time and money into upgrades. A REALTOR® can advise which upgrades will improve value and which just aren’t worth it. Read… set… upgrade!
